Campaign for America's Libraries

CHICAGO — Caroline Kennedy has been named the 2013 Honorary Chair of National Library Week (April 14-20, 2013), according to the American Library Association. During National Library Week and throughout the month of April, libraries of all types—public, school, academic and special-- hold special events to highlight the unique role libraries play in American society and encourage the public to use their resources.

CHICAGO — The library has long been referred to as the cornerstone of democracy, providing free and equal access to information for all people.

Adults across the country know that their library is a go-to resource when it comes to being a well-informed participant in the electoral process. Its resources range from hosting local debates and discussions to acting as polling places and helping patrons register to vote.

CHICAGO — Stuart Wolf, a Wilmette (Ill.) Public Library patron, has won the grand prize in the 2012 Step Up to the Plate @ your library program.

Stuart Wolf's father and son will join him on a trip to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, N.Y. at the end of October for a once-in-a-lifetime behind-the-scenes tour of the library and archives.

CHICAGO — Each year, National Hispanic Heritage Month begins on Sept. 15, commemorating Independence Day for five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. During the month, Mexico and Chile also celebrate independence on Sept. 16 and 18, respectively.

This year, libraries will celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, and the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

CHICAGO - According to the latest projections from the International Council of Shopping Centers, Americans will spend more than $40 billion on back-to-school supplies. Libraries are not sources for back-to-school fashion, but do provide access to library programs and services that help families save hundreds of dollars and support academic achievement.